Media Baron Ramoji Rao, Head of ETV Network, dies at 87

Ramoji Rao, the head of the ETV Network and Ramoji Film City, died at 87 while undergoing treatment in Hyderabad today. He was rushed to Star Hospital in Hyderabad on June 5 after he suffered from high blood pressure and breathlessness, but passed away in the early hours today.
His remains have been shifted to his residence at Ramoji Film City and several prominent political leaders and film personalities are expected to arrive today to pay last respects.

President Droupadi Murmu offered her condolences on the death of Ramoji Rao and said that India has “lost a titan of the media and entertainment sector”.

“An innovative entrepreneur, he pioneered many ventures, including the Eenadu newspaper, ETV news network and Ramoji Film City. Honoured with Padma Vibhushan, he succeeded as his vision was essentially rooted in society. His contributions to this industry will be long remembered. My condolences to his family and well-wishers,” President Murmu said in a post on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled his death and said that the passing away of Ramoji Rao is “extremely saddening”.

“He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world,” PM Modi said on X.

“Ramoji Rao Garu was extremely passionate about India’s development. I am fortunate to have got several opportunities to interact with him and benefit from his wisdom. Condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers during this difficult time. Om Shanti,” he added.

Former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, former Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao, and several other leaders also condoled the death of Ramoji Rao.

He was known to be close to former Andhra Pradesh chief ministers NT Rama Rao and Chandrababu Naidu and several other famous political and film personalities.

Ramoji Rao Won Two Filmfare Awards
Born in 1936, Ramoji Rao was the head of the Ramoji Group which owns the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City.

He also headed the Eenadu newspaper, one of the largest circulated Telugu-language daily newspapers. In the 1980s, the rise of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was linked to support from the Eenadu newspaper group.

Besides ETV Network, he led the production company Ushakiran Movies. Also known as Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, he won the National Award and two Filmfare awards. He produced about 50 films and telefilms.

In 2016, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian honor, for his contributions in journalism, literature, and education. NDTV